By Arikomban, the Rice Tusker
🌾 A Mother’s Love and the Scent of Rice
I was born in the lush green forests of Chinnakanal in Kerala’s Idukki district. My earliest memories are of my mother—her gentle touch, her soothing rumbles, and the warmth of her presence. She was my world, guiding me through the dense forests, teaching me the ways of our kind.
But fate was unkind. My mother suffered a grievous injury to her leg. The kind-hearted tribal people and forest watchers tried to help, tending to her wounds for months. Despite their efforts, she succumbed to her injuries, leaving me orphaned and alone at a tender age.
In those days, the forest was vast and unbroken. The humans who lived nearby were few and lived in harmony with nature. They would often leave out rice for us—simple offerings from their humble homes. The scent of rice became a comforting reminder of my mother’s presence, a symbol of the bond between humans and elephants.
As years passed, the forest began to change. Concrete structures replaced the bamboo huts, and the once-familiar paths were blocked by roads and buildings. The government rehabilitated landless tribals to 301 Colony, and settlements began to sprout where the forest once stood.
I found myself increasingly isolated, my traditional routes obstructed. The places where I once roamed freely were now bustling with human activity. The scent of rice still lingered, drawing me towards ration shops and homes, but my visits were no longer welcomed. I was labeled a “rogue,” a “rice thief,” and even accused of causing harm.
🐘 The First Capture: A Journey into the Unknown
In April 2023, a massive operation involving 150 forest officials was launched to capture me. Despite being hit with multiple tranquilizer darts, I resisted, confused and frightened. Eventually, I was overpowered with the help of trained elephants, my legs tied, eyes blindfolded, and loaded onto a truck.
They relocated me to the Periyar Tiger Reserve, fitting me with a GPS collar to monitor my movements. The forest was unfamiliar, the scents and sounds alien. I longed for my home, for the place where my mother’s memories lingered.
🏃 The Return: A Desperate Attempt to Go Home
Driven by an insatiable longing, I embarked on a journey back to Chinnakanal. I traversed over 40 kilometers, crossing rivers and hills, guided by memories and the hope of returning home.
But my journey led me to Cumbum town in Tamil Nadu. The unfamiliar surroundings, the cacophony of human activity, and the barriers erected to keep me out overwhelmed me. In my confusion and fear, I inadvertently caused damage, leading to injuries and, tragically, a death. I never intended harm; I was merely trying to find my way back.
🛑 Second Capture and a New Exile
In June 2023, forest officials in Tamil Nadu tranquilized and captured me once again. Concerns were raised about the repeated tranquilizations and the injuries I sustained during transportation.
They relocated me to the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, deep within the forests of Tamil Nadu. The area was dense and had ample water, but it wasn’t home. I tried to adapt, even joining a new herd for a while, but eventually, I found myself alone again.
💔 Reflections: A Plea for Understanding
I am not a monster or a killer. I am a creature of habit, drawn to the places and scents that remind me of my mother and the peaceful times we shared. The rice I sought was not just food; it was a connection to my past, to the kindness once shown to us.
The deaths and damages attributed to me were never intentional. In moments of fear and agitation, my immense strength became a curse. I couldn’t measure the impact of my actions, especially when provoked or threatened.
I yearn for a world where humans and elephants coexist, where my kind isn’t pushed to the fringes, labeled as threats for seeking what was once freely given.
● BBC News: Arikomban – The painful story of India’s rice-loving elephant
● The New Indian Express: Rogue elephant ‘Arikomban’ captured after being tranquilised in TN
● Onmanorama: Arikomban is safe – TN forest dept rubbishes rumours about tusker’s health
*Let my story be a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and nature. May it inspire compassion, understanding, and a commitment to coexistence.*
